Booklet Mode Image Correction in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses require a lengthy preparation operation to print and read adjustment charts, leading to reduced productivity due to the need for pre-outputting correction values for image adjustment.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with a control unit that executes a booklet mode, allowing toner image transfer to the second surface before the first surface, and correcting the image on the third surface based on detected information from the second surface, thereby reducing the need for pre-outputting correction values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If adjustment charts are printed and read before outputting a job to compute correction values, then image position and density accuracy is improved, but preparation time increases and productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-computing correction values for a booklet based on the detected position of a single first sheet, and then applying these correction values to subsequent second sheets during the printing process. This eliminates the need to print and read adjustment charts for each sheet, thereby improving productivity while maintaining image position accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the correction information obtained from detecting the first sheet as a template or copy that is applied to subsequent second sheets. Instead of performing separate detection and correction for each sheet, the correction pattern is copied and applied across multiple sheets, reducing preparation time while maintaining consistent image quality.
2Manufacturing precision
If correction values are computed before outputting a job, then image adjustment accuracy is improved, but the preparation operation takes a long time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection and correction value computation for only the first sheet before the booklet printing process begins. The correction values derived from this preliminary action are then applied to all subsequent second sheets during normal printing operations, significantly reducing the total preparation time while maintaining image adjustment accuracy throughout the booklet.
Solution Approach 2:
The first sheet serves as a self-service reference that provides correction information for the entire booklet. By using the first sheet's detected position to generate correction values that automatically apply to subsequent sheets, the system eliminates the need for external adjustment charts and manual intervention for each sheet, thereby reducing preparation time.
3Measurement precision
If adjustment charts are printed prior to outputting a job, then correction value computation is enabled, but the overall process efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The first sheet printed in the booklet serves multiple functions: it acts as both a regular printed page and as a reference sheet for detecting image position and computing correction values. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate adjustment charts, allowing the system to maintain position detection capability while improving job output efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The correction information obtained from the first sheet is copied and applied to all subsequent second sheets in the booklet. This approach enables position detection capability without requiring separate adjustment charts for each sheet, thereby maintaining measurement precision while significantly improving overall productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes an image forming unit including an image bearing member, and a transfer unit, a fixing unit, a re-conveyance unit, a detection unit, and a control unit configured to execute a booklet mode while creating a booklet, the booklet including a first sheet having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a second sheet having a third surface arranged adjacent to the second surface of the first sheet. The control unit is configured to control the image forming unit such that, in the booklet mode, a toner image is transferred to the second surface before a toner image is transferred to the first surface of the first sheet, and a toner image to be formed on the third surface of the second sheet is corrected based on an information of the second surface detected by the detection unit.